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Pamela Ann Marie Lesky (née Dwyer)

September 26, 2016

Peacefully, and surrounded by her family, at University Hospital on Monday, September 26th, 2016. Beloved best friend and wife of Chris for 20 years. Cherished Mom of Ben. Loving daughter of Theresa Dwyer and David Dwyer. Pam will be missed by her sister Christine Glogovic (Jeremy), her brother Jeremy Dwyer (Jackie), and by her brothers-in-law Craig Lesky (Debbie) and Cory Lesky. Proud Aunt of Abigail and Jackson. Visitation will be held on Friday from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. at WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, where a Celebration of Pam’s Life will be conducted on Saturday, October 1st, 2016 at 11:30 a.m., with visitation one hour prior. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation in Pam’s memory are asked to consider Merrymount Children’s Centre. 

Gone too soon

Dearly missed

Always Loved


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I still think about Ms. Dwyer- Lesky often. She was my fifth grade teacher and has an enormous hand in shaping who I am today. I can’t thank her enough for always believing in me and teaching me to never settled for anything less than happiness. I miss her laughter, her positive mindset, and her way of making every lost kid feel special. I’m 27 years old now and I still think of her every-time I hear the song Put Your Records On — one of her favourites.

~ Sukayna

I was deeply saddened by the news of Pam's passing. I worked with Pam at Masonville school, she was truly one of kind, funny with a very big heart. My sincere condolences to you and your family. May the love of those around you help you through the days ahead.

~ Karen Corbeth

Pam was incredible force who loved to laugh and be silly. She spent countless hours teaching and mentoring students and always had something positive to make each situation a little bit better. Her loss I'm sure will impact many who crossed paths with her, worked with her and built a life alongside her. I'm so blessed to have met and worked with her. Condolences to the entire Lesky family. 💜

~ Shane Horvath

Pam and I collided at University. I was drawn to her towering presence (that is not all about her height even though I was hoping we would be basketball teammates) but to her incredible ability to fill a room with fun, laughter and 'preppy' confidence. We spent most of those years of higher learning getting into a wee bit of trouble, working to complete degrees and to find our respective selves as mature adults (sometimes questionable). She had a strength of spirit that allowed her to push through a lot of challenging times and it always amazed me. I have many, many memories that continue to cascade over me as I write this. I will always think of Pam with genuine affection and love. I wish we had made that time to connect for coffee or a drink as we often emailed that we would. My family sends our most positive energies to Pam's family.

~ Jen St. Germain (and family)

Chris and Ben I am sincerely saddened to hear of your loss of such a magnificent Mom and wife. I had the wonderful opportunity of working with Pam in Grade 6 in her classroom. Her caring, loving, personable nature in teaching her students made them love her even more. Pam had a unique way of making students feel better about themselves and that learning was fun. She was a great friend and a wonderful teacher whom I deeply respect and will miss. She will no doubt be a loving singing angel. Rest in peace dear friend.

~ Brenda Seaton

Dear Chris and family, I was very saddened and shocked to hear of the passing of your wife. This is and will be a very difficult time for you and Ben but I know you are strong enough to make it. I know how much you loved Pam and cared for her. You were a great husband and I know you are a great father. Both you and Ben are in my thoughts.

~ Rob Schnurr

My deepest sympathy to the Lesky /Dwyer Families I remember when my daughter Denise and Pam became friends 42 years ago. What a funny girl she was, Pam always had all the kids in stitches. Many mornings I would drive my girls to school with more friends and the backseat was so nosy everyone laughing with Pam those were the days without seat belts and the kids bouncing all around and I am trying not to laugh too. The same thing would happen on the way home. What great times to remember. Rest in Peace Pam you and your families will be in my thoughts and prayers.

~ Cathy Ormandy

Mrs. Dwyer-Lesky was my grade 6 music teacher at Masonville and she was the BEST. I'm 25 now and I still remember how fun her classes were and how much she'd make us laugh. She had the best sense of humour!! I'm so sad this has happened, but I'm so grateful I got to have such a great teacher that clearly cared about her students as much as she did. I can honestly say that I will remember her forever. My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time. Rest in Peace Mrs. Dwyer-Lesky.

~ Samira L.

Our deepest condolences go out to Chris, Ben and all of Pam's family. So sorry for your loss.

~ Rhonda and Kevin Springer

Condolences. Sorry for your loss. Mitch Klinger

~ Mitch Klinger

I am so sorry to hear about Pam's passing. I was a roommate of hers at McMaster university for a year. She was hilarious and her sense of humour was infectious! We had many big laughs together. My deepest condolences to her family.

~ Kate Gladney

Chris, Ben and Family- words can't express our sadness at the passing of Pam. We just saw her at Original Kids a few weeks back and had a lovely time catching up. We were able to remind her what a positive teacher she was for Sophie in grade 6 at Masonville. She had a great balance if firmness and fun. We always laughed at the memory of her in her "cow" costume at Halloween! She was always so supportive and helpful and we were blessed to know her. She was one of Sophie's favourite teachers! When we saw her at Original Kids her face always lit up when she spoke about Ben and what he was up to. So sweet. Please know we are thinking of you both on this most difficult day.

~ Kate, Jack and Sophie Jones

A special life lost too soon. Pam was a wonderful human being who will be missed. So sorry for your loss.

~ Charlotte Turner

(Donated to Merrymount Children's Centre)

~ Tony, Lisa & Kaja

(Donated to Merrymount Children's Centre)

~ Diana

(Donated to Merrymount Children's Centre)

~ Bruno Labate

(Donated to Merrymount Children's Centre)

~ Carol Corsaut

Ben and my daughter Holly were at Jeanne Sauve together and he was always such a lovable sweet kid. I knew he came from a loving home because of his personality. It breaks my heart he is going through this pain. Many many hugs to you Ben... Your mom always had your back and never doubt anything changes now. You will always be watched over by a beautiful angel, kiddo.

~ Rachel Cree-Lowe

(Donated to Merrymount Children's Centre)

~ Doug Del Net

(Donated to Merrymount Children's Centre)

~ Lesley Yates Noonan

Dave and Theresa, Barb and I just came across Pams obit. We are so sorry to hear of her passing. All our Love.

~ Rick Turnbull

Words can't possibly explain the overwhelming emotion that hit me when I heard the news. Thank you so much for being the best teacher I ever had. You will be deeply missed. My condolences to the family of whom I have only had the pleasure of meeting Ben. I will never forget to always work hard play hard. Thank you for touching so many lives. As I graduate this year from Masonville I will picture you at the graduation cheering us on. And as you always said you hated drama so I'll rap this up and mainly if I don't stop writing now I might never so, good bye Mrs lesky.

~ Alex Sher

Ben and Chris you are in my every thought, word and deed. We the Martins are so sorry for your loss and are here for you during this time. I had some crazy, fun times at Laurier with Pam as a teen. We were always the loud ones but never truly in trouble. We loved orchestra and all it had to offer. We enjoyed trips to the US and England. As adults, Pam was a rock for our family in recent years by no coincidence. She was the light in my life as we looked down a dark alley of cancer. She was the proof that there are survivors. Ben is the proof that miracles do happen. You were both Adored by her. Thank you for sharing Pam with us. Jennifer, Brian, and Liam xoxo

~ Jennifer Mitchell

Please accept our heartfelt condolences. While my daughters did not have the pleasure of Mrs. Lesky as their teacher, they were in much younger grades. They both remember her from our first year at Masonville. They especially remember her dressing up as a cow for Halloween at school. A beautiful person both inside and out. She will be missed.

~ Barron Family

Ben, Chris and family you are all in our thoughts and prayers during this time of loss. Please accept our heartfelt condolences. May you take some comfort in knowing the joy that Pam added to this world.

~ Faber Family

God needed some musicians in her orchestra so took Pam to run the show. A friend to all, a great colleague to many, amazing mom to Ben, and wonderful partner to Chris. We will never forget Calumet 2001, years at Mac, and seeing her perform. Thought, prayers, and comfort to all. Xoxo

~ Lennie Boyd & Catherine Zeisner

I only met Pam once, at Karen Lesky's retirement party when the Canadian klan arrived in upstate NY. It was a wonderful summer day. Great family. Pam was so kind, funny, and an all round wonderful person. My thoughts and prayers are with my Canadian friends and family. May god give you strength to cary on.

~ Patricia Zazynski

Sending loving thoughts and prayers to the Lesky and Dwyer families. May the amazing memories you have of Pam give you comfort during this very difficult time. God Bless and good night to an amazing woman.

~ Michelle Lovie (Rigby)

Chris: I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your dear wife Pam. I know she was a lovely lady. I realize how much she meant to you and Ben. I want to express my deepest condolences to you and all of your family. Camilo

~ Camilo Camero

Chris and Ben, I am lost for words, so deeply saddened to hear of Pam's passing. Pam and I met at the library when Ben and Kade were about 4 months old. On the first day of "Books for Babies" there was an instant connection between us. Then to meet up again when the boys were starting kindergarten at the same school...surely a sign that we were connected ! We kind of drifted in and out of each others lives, as some friendships go....always picking up right where we left off with a warm hug:) Pam's infectious personality, her big smile, and her loving, gracious heart are mirrored in Ben. Pam's spirit will always be with you and guide you both throughout this life. May your tears of sorrow and broken hearts be comforted in knowing the incredible impact Pam has had on all those who knew her. xo with love, Jody and Kade

~ Jody and Kade Elliott

Dear Chris & Ben, Therese 'Mom' & Dave 'Dad' Dwyer, Christine & Jeremy. I am heartbroken to learn the passing of Pam, we had just spoke a few days before her passing. My sincere & deepest condolences! I've met Pam 42 years ago in JK, we instantly became friends. We started our friendship journey at St. Francis, St. Mary's Choir School and Laurier S.S. and until her passing. I have so many wonderful memories of Pam, she was my confidant, supporter, my partner in crime and she was my dearest friend who made me laugh continuously. Pam had such an amazing personality, she someone who I could call after a few years had gone by and it would be like no time had passed. Pam was an amazing person, mother, teacher & friend, you touched the lives of so many people, you will truly be missed. I Love you Pam, God Bless, watch over Ben and until we meet again, your friend, Denise xoxo

~ Denise Ormandy-Moniz

Chris and Ben, Hearing about Pam's passing has shocked us immensely. Chris, I know Pam was the love of your life and a loving mother to Ben. Our deepest sympathies are with you and your family at this time. Let there be prayers of peace, healing and comfort. Always remember that, you are surrounded by much love from your extended family here. Dean & Betty.

~ Dean Anderson & Betty Ng

I am so truly sorry for the family and friends for your loss, she will be deeply missed by every life she touched, which I know is many. She truly was one in a million. As a child, I was nervous to be entering the fifth grade unsure of who my teacher was going to be, similar to every other year of elementary. When I found out Mrs. Dwyer would be teaching me, I immediately felt as ease. That year brought me a lot of personal growth, and from Mrs. Dwyer I learned how to be myself and not worry what others thought. She was not only an incredible teacher, but also an amazing woman who brought comfort with her smile and laughter with her jokes. I woke up every day excited to go to school, and made life-long friends and memories in her classroom. Whenever I have an interview or presentation, I literally still see her face smiling at the back of the room while we played her um and uh game. I still talk about her all of the time, and even tell stories about her to my new friends who have no idea who she is. Whenever I would visit Masonville, I would always hope to see her around and have another one of her big warm hugs. Again, my sincerest condolences to the friends and loving family.

~ MacKenzie Baker

I am so truly sorry for the family and friends for your loss, she will be deeply missed by every life she touched, which I know is many. She truly was one in a million. As a child, I was nervous to be entering the fifth grade unsure of who my teacher was going to be, similar to every other year of elementary. When I found out Mrs. Dwyer would be teaching me, I immediately felt as ease. That year brought me a lot of personal growth, and from Mrs. Dwyer I learned how to be myself and not worry what others thought. She was not only an incredible teacher, but also an amazing woman who brought comfort with her smile and laughter with her jokes. I woke up every day excited to go to school, and made life-long friends and memories in her classroom. Whenever I have an interview or presentation, I literally still see her face smiling at the back of the room while we played her um and uh game. I still talk about her all of the time, and even tell stories about her to my new friends who have no idea who she is. Whenever I would visit Masonville, I would always hope to see her around and have another one of her big warm hugs. Again, my sincerest condolences to the friends and loving family.

~ MacKenzie Baker

Deepest sympathies to the Lesky family during this time. We are very sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

~ Sarah & Mike Desormeaux

I was shocked and saddened to hear of Pam's passing. I knew her and Ben through FCTE. She was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed. Please accept my deepest condolences.

~ Lisa Snow

Some of the best laughs I have had were with Pam, she loved life and family. I will always remember you.

~ Shannon Scott Riley

Just thinking about Pam right now is putting a smile on my face. I very much enjoyed hearing her gush about Ben and Chris during our annual girl's weekends in Grand Bend. She was a special person and I will miss her.

~ Julie Kernohan

Chris and Ben, There are no words to say how sorry we are about Pam's passing. Pam was such a caring and vibrant person who always made us laugh. Her smile was contagious! Her love for the both of you was so evident, from the largest gestures to the littlest things like a hug or a smile. Ben, you were and always will be, your mom's pride and joy. She was so proud of everything you did. Our thoughts and prayers are with you both. Kevin, Julie, Matthew, Cameron and Kayla

~ Duncan Family

I have the very best memories of time spent with Pam. My heart aches to hear she's gone. Thinking of the entire family.

~ Leslee Johnston

We are so sorry to hear of Pam s passing. She was tremendously loved by students and staff. Our hearts are broken.

~ Masonville Staff

Dear Ben and Chris, we are so sorry for your loss. Please know we are thinking of you and that your OKTC family is always here for you.

~ Original Kids Theatre Company

Dear Chris, we are terribly sorry to hear about the passing of Pam. May our condolences bring you peace during this painful time. Love & Prayers, Pamela Fletcher & Scott Coles

~ Pamela Fletcher

Dear Ben, Chris and family- We are so sorry for your loss. Pam was such a joyful, wonderful woman. We are remembering her warmth, humour and kindness, and thinking of you now. Colin, Cris and Peter

~ Ferguson Family

Ben and Family, We are so sorry for your loss. Our deepest sympathies go out to you and your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Nathan, Reema and Jim Misener

~ Misener Family

Words can't express the sadness I feel for you, Chris and Ben. I remember Pam as one of a kind, full of enthusiasm, charisma and love for her students. I remember the delight of working with her as my teaching partner at Masonville and Thanksgiving at your home with your family. I'll never forget her kindness. My thoughts are with you. Keep the memories of her in your hearts.

~ Ursula Johnson

Hi Chris iam so sorry for your loss my heart goes to you and your entire family during this difficult time. Be strong my friend

~ Pedro garcia

Chris sending you and Ben my deepest condolences. Love you buddy.

~ Francesco Molinaro

Ben and family - we are truly sorry for this sudden and tragic loss. You have been in my thoughts all day. I know that all of you will continue to look after one another as you always do. My sincere sympathies. "Molly's people".

~ Wiesje Henderson

Dear Ben and Family - We offer our deepest condolences and sympathy to your family during this challenging time. Our prayers are with you. Joshua, Mark and Michelle Peck.

~ Peck Family

Ben and I are heartbroken. We lost so much with her passing. We would do anything to have her back. Our lives will never be the same without her. I love you Pammy and I always will. I hope you are resting peacefully now. Please keep an eye over Ben and I and know every day we will cherish who you are and what you will always mean to us. Our home has an empty place without you. Bye my love and best friend!

~ Chris Lesky

Our deepest sympathy to all of the family. Our prayers and thoughts are will you.

~ Jeff and Vickie Merkle

So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

~ Wendy Saby

Ben and family, we were so sorry to hear about your loss. Please know that you are in all of our thoughts and prayers. Sam, John & Jill Humphrey

~ Humphrey Family

Pam was instrumental in turning my daughters life around. She was Olivia Murray's favorite because she believed in her when she didn't feel good about herself. She will always hold a special place in our hearts. Prayers to you Chris and Ben

~ Wendy Mencel

Chris, Ben and family - I am so very sorry to hear about Pam. Laughter is definitely the first thing that comes to mind when I think of Pam - whether it was crazy times in high school or catching up in the years that followed. My last contact with her was early this year when I was disappointed to hear she wouldn't be joining friends in The Bend for the weekend. Although not surprised it was because Ben had a weekend full of activities that she didn't want to miss - such strong love and commitment for her family! Pam - you will be missed but live on in all the memories you've created. Thanks for being you!

~ Marnie Johnston

I am so devastated by the news of Pam's passing. We were trouble with a capitol T in high school. I remember meeting her at the first grade 9 dance. We danced like goof balls and loved it and from that moment on we were a duo. Getting into lots of trouble in school was what we did best. The best years of my life in high school were spent with Pam. Parties, sleep overs, student council, football games and just hanging out. She was my best friend and had a huge impact on my life. And life gets busy. I am so sorry for the loss of Pam. She was a magnificent person and teacher and she touched the lives of many. She will be missed. Chris and Ben I cannot say enough about your wife and mother. My deepest sympathies to both of you. She is strong, she will watch over you forever.

~ Michele Waite (Miller)

Very sorry for your loss. I will keep your family in my prays.

~ Jason Teeter

We are so saddened to hear of Ms. Lesky's passing. She was, without a doubt, one of the most influential teachers that my children had the honour of knowing and one whom they will never forget. While she successfully taught her students the required lessons (always with a sense of humour and without homework!) she taught them so much more. These life lessons included self-confidence, tolerance and respect not only for themselves but for for others as well. She taught by example and had the gift of making every one of her students feel important. She will be so truly missed.

~ Cathy Bruni (Kohut family)

Mrs Lesky will be dearly missed. My daughter Alicia Sandford had the priviledge to have had Pam as her teacher for two instrumental years at Masonville Public School. We will never forgot how she always made you smile and she had a wonderful sense of humour. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family at this difficult time. Mark, Tracy, Alicia and Abby

~ The Sandford Family

We are so sorry, Pam was always full of life and happiness. I have so many wonderful memories of Pam and Michele when they attended Laurier.

~ Cheryl Miller

A beautiful soul A cherished friend A respected colleague An inspirational teacher Pam Lesky, you profoundly touched our lives. You will live on in our hearts in our memories forever.

~ Pamela Mitchell

As I read these amazing comments from everyone, I am very happy the world sees Pammy as great as she was. She was very humble and never once bragged about all the things she did for people. And she had every reason to. She gave to kids, she helped the less fortunate, she always stood up to bullies and the bullies knew to stop or they had to deal with Pam, and Pam never lost. Pam once met a family at the hospital that were having a baby and had no money and no way to care for this child. Pam actually brought the family home and got them on their feet. Supplied the new baby with thousands of dollars in baby goods. Pam never once told anyone of this and did not want any credit. Pammy was more than special. A person like Pam only comes around once in a lifetime. Ben and I got the gift of a lifetime by being so close to her life. We got to see uphand her kindness, love, toughness and respect for everyone (unless you crossed her). BABY, YOU'RE THE GREATEST!

~ Chris Lesky

My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.

~ Christine Shore

I had the honour of having Mrs.Lesky as my teacher in grade 3 and 6. But our relationship was so much deeper than just student-teacher. She helped me through so much and she was like family to me. She gave me the hard truth when I needed it and kept me grounded. She was supportive, loving, enthusiastic, and confident. I am absolutely heartbroken by the news and just wish I could've said my goodbyes. My heart goes out to her son Ben, who I met a couple times, and of course her husband Mr.Lesky. Mrs. Lesky, you will never be forgotten and always cherished. Thank you for everything, I love you. Rest In Peace.

~ Lian Alqayem

Dear Pam.. Hard to put into words just how much you meant and or mean to us . From the first day I met you ...on roller blades , you attempted stop and literally hit the curb and landed on my front lawn. I chuckled and you told me off...right then I knew I wanted to be a part of your life in some fashion .. and I thank God everyday that you fell lol (almost 21 years ago). From that moment on.. we became friends... better friends..then grew from there to family. You became my brother's girlfriend then his wife ..you truly made him the happiest man alive ... you both had an amazing son (Ben) that was truly your world. I have had the utmost privilege and honour to be a integral part of your lives (you , Chris and Ben ) and for this i will cherish more than anything. To have witnessed how wonderful of a mother , wife , sister -in law you have been , words can't describe. I will miss you for who you are , what you have created and what you have allowed me to be a part of ..it has truly made me a better person. I promise you I will be a big part of Ben's life ..watch out for Chris, honour you and your wishes till I die . This isn't good bye Pam ... I am thanking you for what you have given me and for this I will never forget. Please give my mom and dad a big hug for me in heaven. I love you ... and will truly miss you. Cory

~ Cory Lesky

It is wish a shattered heart that I wish rest in peace to the greatest teacher I've ever been so fortunate to have in my life. Mrs. Lesky, your thoughtful words and brilliance in teaching are what shaped me to be the person that I am today. She loved each and every one of her students deeply, and she always did whatever she could to make sure that we were doing well, she touched so many hearts that way. She was one of my greatest role models. I'm so fortunate to be able to look back on the three years we shared and smile at all the beautiful memories that we had, I'll never forget the person who taught me to love myself for who I am, to stand up and be proud, and never be ashamed of the things that fascinate me. Mrs. Lesky was the one who sparked my passion fordrawing, so I here forth dedicate every piece of art I produce for the rest of my life in her memory. I'm so luck to have known such an incredible individual. I send my condolences to the rest of the family, you are in my thoughts.

~ Maggie Capson

Mrs Lesky was a truly wonderful teacher that we were so privileged to have for grade three at Masonville. She touched the lives of so many students, and was a very gifted educator. Thank you for sharing the gifts of such a special person with our children. Nine years later, her influence remains. She made the world a better place. Thank you.

~ Marina Salvadori/ Aoife Pucchio

Pam was a wonderful person. I remember how funny she was and how much she could make a person laugh. My thoughts and prayers are with you. She will truly be missed.

~ Amy Raemisch (Kummer)

Rest in Peace to one of the most amazing teachers we have ever known. Mrs. Lesky was such an inspiring woman who will always and forever be one of our greatest role models. She truly loved teaching students and will always stand out in my mind as someone who had a passion for everything she did. Her inspiring outlook on life and wisdom that she passed on to her students remains incomparable. She always had the ability to bring a smile to your face and make you laugh with her optimistic spirit. We send our condolences to the family for their loss and are proud to have known such a phenomenal woman. Heaven gained a beautiful angel.

~ The Kacer Family

I am heartbroken at the loss of my sister in law, you gave my brother a wonderful gift with Ben and you made my brother very happy, thank you for that .Going to miss you Pam. We will watch out for Chris and Ben. Love you

~ Craig Lesky

My condolences to the Dwyer and Lesky family...rest in peace Pam

~ Scott Sturdy

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